**NATIONAL PLAY OUTSIDE DAY**

#PlayOutsideDay #OutdoorFun #ExploreFlorida

In 2011, Aaron Wiggans and Rhonda D. Abeyta founded National Play Outside Day to encourage everyone to enjoy the outdoors and develop lifelong healthy habits, celebrated the first Saturday of each month. Life can get busy, and responsibilities often keep us indoors. But National Play Outside Day is here to remind us to stretch our legs and enjoy the great outdoors!

8 Benefits of Outdoor Play

Why is outdoor play so beneficial? Let's dive into a few reasons:

1. **Freedom from Routines:** Stepping outside breaks the monotony of daily life.

2. **Boosts Energy:** Fresh air and sunshine invigorate us, sparking motivation.

3. **Clears the Mind:** A change of scenery can provide new perspectives and clarity.

4. **Physical Activity:** Outdoor play keeps our bodies active and healthy.

5. **New Experiences:** The sights and sounds of nature are enriching, especially for children.

6. **Social Interaction:** Playing outside fosters positive social interactions.

7. **Healthy Habits:** Regular outdoor play can become a positive habit.

8. **Stimulates Imagination:** The outdoors is a playground for creativity and adventure.

So, make it a point to get outside with your family on the first Saturday of every month – or even more often!

20 Ideas for National Play Outside Day

No matter the season, there are always ways to enjoy the outdoors. Here are some fun activities, including a few Florida-specific ones:

1. **Explore Local Hiking Trails:** Florida has beautiful trails like the Florida Trail.

2. **Visit the Beach:** Enjoy Florida's stunning beaches – build sandcastles or swim.

3. **Check Out Neighborhood Parks:** Swing, slide, and climb at every playground.

4. **Start a Game:** Try catch, kickball, tag, or Frisbee.

5. **Run Through Sprinklers:** Perfect for those hot Florida days!

6. **Go Camping:** Visit state parks like Bahia Honda for a camping adventure.

7. **Go Fishing:** Florida’s many lakes and coastlines are perfect for fishing.

8. **Fly a Kite:** Breezy Florida beaches are ideal for kite flying.

9. **Bike Ride:** Explore scenic bike trails like those in the Everglades.

10. **Visit a Local Pool:** Take a dip or sign up for swimming lessons.

11. **Build a Fort:** Use what’s around – leaves, sand, or snow (if you're up north!).

12. **Walk Around the Block:** Simple but refreshing.

13. **Jump in Piles of Leaves:** Seasonal fun in the fall.

14. **Build a Snowperson:** For those rare Florida winter moments up north.

15. **Go Sledding:** If visiting northern parts during winter.

16. **Identify Constellations:** Florida’s clear night skies are perfect for stargazing.

17. **Visit State/National Parks:** Check out the Everglades or Biscayne National Park.

18. **Attend Community Events:** Many Florida towns host free outdoor events.

19. **Introduce Old Games:** Share your childhood favorites with your kids.

20. **Join Outdoor Classes:** Try yoga or fitness classes offered in parks.

Florida Activities Spotlight:

- **Snorkeling in the Keys:** Explore underwater wonders in Key Largo or Key West.

- **Airboat Rides:** Experience the unique Everglades ecosystem up close.

- **Kayaking:** Paddle through scenic waterways like those in Weeki Wachee Springs.

- **Wildlife Watching:** Visit wildlife refuges like Merritt Island for birdwatching.

Get outside, play, and share your adventures with #PlayOutsideDay on social media!

Celebrate the joy of outdoor play today and every day! 🌞🌳🏖️